Real Confirm Benitez As New Coach

Real Madrid on Wednesday morning confirmed Rafael Benitez as the club's new manager.

The Spanish giants made the announcement through their website, with a simple statement: "Real Madrid C. F. will present Rafa Benítez as the new first team coach for the next three seasons today, Wednesday 3 June.

"The ceremony will take place at 1pm CEST in the presidential box of the Santiago Bernabéu. Following his unveiling, Rafa Benítez will hold a press conference in the press room."

The ex-Liverpool boss replaces Carlo Ancelotti at the Bernabeu after the Italian's departure last week.

Benitez announced his Napoli exit on Thursday and took charge of his final game against Lazio on Sunday.

The Spaniard could not lead Napoli to the Champiobs League as they finished fourth in Serie A, while Ancelotti led Real to second place in La Liga and the Champions League semi-finals, a year after winning the coveted European trophy.